Metal is one of the few materials that can be used repeatedly without a loss in quality, and proves to be just as useful to those who need the materials as new product. With this being the case, collecting and selling scrap metal is a common task to many. We’ve talked before about the type of metals that we accept, but how does it all work?

First, it’s important to acclimate yourself with types of scrap metal as you’re collecting. While this isn’t required, it helps to know what you have and what’s being paid for that type of metal. If you can separate the types of metal before bringing it in, it’s likely you will be paid more because it’s easier to weigh the pre-sorted materials.

Secondly, it’s good to keep track of the selling price of each metal. These numbers change frequently and being knowledgeable will ensure you maximize your selling amount. There are websites and apps that monitor and update scrap metal pricing. It is also important to vet the scrap yards in your area. Do they buy all types of metals, or just a few? Do they take old cars or are they prohibited? Will you be paid with cash or a check? Forming a relationship with a reputable scrap yard will make for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Lastly, you may be bringing a large load; will the scrap yard help you to unload your haul? It should be acknowledged that you are entering a work zone, often with large machinery, when you enter a scrap yard. It’s best to wear appropriate clothing and shoes, and remain aware of your surroundings.

It’s always important to remember that scrap metal pricing is not left up to all scrap yards. It does fluctuate! Checking in on pricing weekly or monthly can help you to plan visits to sell your metal. The metal recycling rate is only around 34%-35%, far too low for those who need or want recycled metals. So if you’re holding back on visiting, rest assured that the scrap yards will offer their help and understanding through the selling process.
​
For questions, call us at (804) 800-9672 or come visit us at our Coxendale or Deerhill location! 

With an influx of new appliances and holiday gifts making their way into homes this season, it is as good a time as ever to consider recycling scrap metal and appliances for some extra cash. Often, activities that provide metal to scrap yards- like construction and home renovations- have slowed down due to colder weather. This means that many scrap companies are willing to offer promotions or higher rates for residential recycling. Here’s where you might find some recyclable items in your home:

Garage
Your garage holds a plethora of scrap metal. Just think of bikes that children have outgrown, power tools that you don’t use anymore, old auto parts, and “trash” from recent remodeling. Outdated fencing and lawn mowers also contain metal that can be recycled. Instead of letting it collect dust, bring it in!

Kitchen
Though very different from the garage, appliances in the kitchen can also be recycled. Refrigerators, microwaves, and even kitchen stoves can contain copper, a valuable metal to pays out much higher than others. Pots and pans can often be recycled as iron or copper. Don’t forget about checking silverware and separating aluminum cans from other trash if you drink canned drinks!
​
Laundry Room and Bathroom
Washers and dryers are often recycled, but there are lots of pipes and appliances that contain copper in these parts of your home. Metal shelving, air conditioning units, or other small laundry or restroom appliances are worth scrapping if not in use. No matter the appliance, it is important to remember to remove the copper wiring from inside and keep it separated, so that you can maximize your payout.
 
To see what you can recycle with us at USA Iron and Metal, or to answer any questions you may have, check us out at www.usaironandmetal.com/, call us at (804) 800-9672, or visit us at one of our locations: 1800 Coxendale Road Chesterfield, VA 23836 or 11800 Deerhill Rd. Midlothian, VA 23112. 

USA Iron and Metal wants to pay you cash for your ferrous and non-ferrous metals. But what does this mean? Generally, ferrous metals contain iron and non-ferrous metals do not. This is because these names are derived from the Latin word for iron, “ferrum.” All metals fall into one of these two categories.
 
Non-Ferrous Metals:
Non-ferrous metals have been used since the beginning of civilization and became especially popular with the use of copper and bronze. Because non-ferrous metals are not magnetic and don’t contain iron or steel, they are important for appliances that involve electronic or wired mechanisms. Gold and silver fall into this category as well. We accept common non-ferrous metals such as: copper, aluminum, plumbing parts, electric motors, and radiators.

Ferrous Metals:
Typically, if the metal sticks to a magnet, it will be considered as ferrous metal. This magnetization is important for motor and electrical appliances, like refrigerators. The use of ferrous metals began later than non-ferrous, around 1200 BC. The use of iron began to become more popular around this time, known for its strength and durability. We accept common ferrous metals such as: steel, automobile parts, cable and wire, chain link fencing, and air condition compressors.  
 
In the recycling industry, ferrous metals tend to be recycled in larger quantities, while non-ferrous metals are worth more money. This is true in the metal’s original state and when selling as scrap. The recycling of both metals greatly contributes to the well-being of the environment, seeing as many materials are used in their creation. To sell your scrap metal, visit USA Iron and Metal at one of our retail centers conveniently located at 1800 Coxendale Road in Chester, or 11800 Deerhill Road in Midlothian. 

​As the amount of trash in landfills each year steadily increases, it is important that we do all that we can to minimize resource depletion. While people are accustomed to home recycling, and familiar with the ability to recycle paper, plastic, and glass, they fail to realize the ease at which they can recycle metal as well.

The National Institute of health shows that when compared to virgin ore, the amount of energy that can be saved with recycled materials is astronomical. 92% of energy is saved by using recycled aluminum, along with 90% for copper and 56% for steel. It is also reduces mining costs, mining waste, and water usage that would result from virgin ore.

As for the environment, recycling scrap metal ensures that we do our best to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Without putting increased strain on our climate, recycling helps maintain habitats and health for plants, animals, and people.

Recycling metal is economically friendly to you. Not only can you make some extra cash on the spot, you rid yourself of scrap sitting around your home or yard. By doing a bit of research on what metals you plan to sell, you can maximize your pay out, along with helping the planet and your community. Metal recycling creates jobs rather than sitting in a landfill; the recycling industry employs over a million workers just throughout America.
​
If you think you might have metal you’d like to sell, check out our website at www.usaironandmetal.com for more information on scrap metal recycling. With locations conveniently located in Chester and Midlothian Virginia, we are accessible to everyone in Chesterfield and surrounding areas.